Things To Do in Kyoto

Q: I will be visiting Kyoto on business with my family and would like to know what interesting sights or attractions one can visit in and around the city. We are not too keen on the temples, and would prefer things that might appeal to our teenage children as well. - Jan MacDonald

A: There are plenty of fascinating things to do and see in Kyoto. In many ways, it is a more interesting destination than Tokyo as it really espouses the traditions and culture of the Japanese people. Even if you are not keen on temples, do visit at least one of the 1600 Buddhist temples, as this is what the city is most famous for. Then you should visit Nijojo castle, which was built by a famous shogun in a bid to show that he had surpassed the Emperor in prestige. Try out the "nightingale floor", which was constructed so it made a noise similar to a bird's call when someone stepped on it in order to warn of intruders. The Uzumasa Movie Village should appeal to your children. This is the Japanese version of Hollywood and is where most samurai movies are made. There's a 20-minute ninja display, a special effects show, a haunted house and a museum. Your youngsters can even dress up as a geisha or a samurai and have your picture taken. To see a geisha, head for the Gion district at sundown. You will spot the white-faced women scurrying along the backstreets on their way to appointments. Most Westerners find them totally intriguing, as are the small shops in this area that sell geisha paraphernalia. Other things you can do is dine on "floating noodles" (you catch them as they flow down a chute) in a restaurant in the small town of Kibune outside Kyoto and try your hand at sha-kyo, the writing of sutras. This is the copying of the oral teachings of Buddha in Chinese symbols and the best place for it is Koinzan Saiho-ji (the moss temple). The best shopping for authentic handicrafts and souvenirs can be found at the flea market held at the Toji Temple. However, it only operates on the 21st day of every month. Finally, try to visit Enryaku-ji , a monastery on Mount Hiei overlooking the city, the home of the famous "marathon monks". They set out to complete a 1,000-day challenge, which involves running tens of thousands of kilometres over a seven-year period. Since 1585 only 46 men have completed the challenge. (19 July 2009)